Welcome to Part 10 of my top 100 pound for pound boxers of all-time series. Today, boxers #20-11 will be revealed. We’re really getting down to the home stretch here, as we count down among the most hallowed legends of boxing history.
20) Carlos Monzon
Carlos Monzon is generally regarded as one of the five greatest Middleweights who ever lived. He turned professional in February 1963 and lost 3 bouts over his first twenty months. However, he would never lose again, doing undefeated over the final 13 years of his career, going 71-0-9 over this span. Overall, Monzon was 87-3-9 (58 KOs).
At 5’11 ½’’ Monzon was long and lean with a 76 inch reach, possessing excellent power in both fists. He possessed an iron chin and great stamina. He was never stopped in 99 bouts. Monzon certainly wasn’t the fastest guy in the ring but was a clever technician who possessed an excellent left jab. Monzon won the Middleweight championship in November 1970 with a 12th round stoppage over fellow hall of famer Nino Benvenuti. He would go on to defend the title 14 times (9 KOs) over the next 7 years. This represents a division record for an undisputed Middleweight champion. Monzon was one of the three best fighters of the 1970’s along with Muhammad Ali and Roberto Duran.
Monzon’s significant opponents included: Nino Benvenuti (won twice), Emile Griffith (won twice), Jean Claude Bouttier (won twice), Rodrigo Valdez (won twice), Tom Bogs (won), Jose Napoles (won), Tony Mundine (won), and Bennie Briscoe (won, drew), Monzon never lost the title in the ring, choosing to retire after his second victory over Valdez in July 1977 at the age of 35. He is among the rare few that resisted the temptation to return to the ring.
Monzon’s outstanding record, dominance at Middleweight, and quality of opposition earn him a spot among boxing’s top 20 of all-time.
19) Marvelous Marvin Hagler
Marvelous Marvin Hagler was a true throwback. Over a 14 year career, lasting from 1973 to 1987, he compiled a record of 62-3-2 (52 KOs). It could have been 66-1, as both draws and two of his three losses were hotly disputed.
Hagler defeated Sugar Ray Seales, Cyclone Hart, Willie “The Worm” Monroe, Bennie Briscoe, Kevin Finnegan, Doug Demmings, and Mike Colbert before receiving his first title shot against champion Vito Antuofermo in November 1979. Hagler controlled the fight, however, the judges scored it a controversial draw. Ten months later, Hagler won the Middleweight championship, destroying Alan Minter in three rounds. Marvin ruled with an iron fist over the next 6 ½ years, dispatching 12 challengers, 11 by stoppage, including a rematch victory over Antuofermo in June 1981.
Hagler defeated the legendary Roberto Duran by unanimous decision in November 1983. In April 1985, He faced the red hot Thomas Hearns, walking through Tommy’s crushing rights and stopping him in 3 rounds. After stopping undefeated power puncher John Mugabi in the 11th, Hagler received a long awaited match with Sugar Ray Leonard. Marvin was past his prime by the time they faced, on April 6, 1987, but was still a heavy favorite. However, Leonard boxed brilliantly and won by a close, controversial split decision. Hagler retired in disgust after the fight.
Differentiating between Hagler and Monzon was difficult. Monzon had more victories, a slightly longer title reign, and faced better opposition as champion. Conversely, Hagler had the more dominant victories. In the end, the Hearns fight made the difference. I believe Tommy was better than anyone Monzon faced, thus giving Hagler the slightest of edges.
18) Jack Johnson
Jack Johnson, as the first African American Heavyweight champion, is probably one of the two most historically significant figures in boxing history, along with Joe Louis. The social implications of his career and the injustices he endured are beyond the scope of this article but one cannot mention him without at least acknowledging his historical importance.
Johnson fought for more than 33 years, from 1897 to 1931. After chasing the title for years, he captured it in December 1908 with a 14th round victory over Tommy Burns and dominated the division over the next several years. Overall, Johnson held the title for seven years, defending 6 times. In July 1910, former Heavyweight champion James J. Jeffries was coaxed out of retirement to challenge Johnson. Poor Jim was shellacked and stopped in 15 rounds. Nearly five years later Johnson lost the title by a 26th round knockout to Jess Willard in April 1915. Allegations still persist to this date that Johnson threw the fight.
Johnson’s significant opponents over the course of his career included: Black Bill (won four), Sam McVea (won three), Fireman Jim Flynn (won twice), Denver Ed Martin (won two), Joe Jeannette (won five, lost, and drew), George Gardner (won), Marvin Hart (lost), Young Peter Jackson (won), Sam Langford (won), Bob Fitzsimmons (won), Tommy Burns (won), James J. Jeffries (won), Stanley Ketchel (won), Philadelphia Jack O’Brien (drew), Joe Choynski (lost), Mexican Pete Everett (drew), Jess Willard (lost), Bearcat Wright (lost).
Overall, Johnson’s record in recorded bouts was 70-11-11 (35 KOs). Historical significance aside, Johnson was one of the greatest Heavyweights ever. His accomplishments in the ring warrant top 20 status.
17) Floyd Mayweather Jr.
No matter where I put Floyd, I know I’m completely screwed. His fans are going to scream and howl that he’s not listed as the G.O.A.T. At the same time, traditionalists also going to strenuously object to putting him anywhere near the top. Anyway, this is my opinion and I’m sticking to it. To those who think Floyd’s the G.O.A.T, you need a refresher on boxing history. To the Floyd critics and haters, I’m not thrilled with his act either but you do have to acknowledge the man’s accomplishments are special.
Mayweather is the best defensive fighter I’ve ever seen. His reign of dominance over the past 15+ years is historic. Yes, he’s done some cherry-picking (or I prefer to call it opportunistic match making). That said, he’s faced and defeated numerous quality opponents over the years including: Genaro Hernandez, Angel Manfredy, Diego Corrales, Jose Luis Castillo (twice, although the first fight should have been a loss), Arturo Gatti, Zab Judah, Oscar De La Hoya, Ricky Hatton, Juan Manuel Marquez, Shane Mosley, Miguel Cotto, Canelo Alvarez, and finally Manny Pacquiao.
I can’t justify ranking Mayweather higher because: 1) He lacks a singular, defining win over an all-time great who was in his truly in his prime and at his best weight. The closest thing to this would be Cotto, who is not top 100 worthy. 2) He’s faced limited adversity in the ring so we’re still left with the unanswered question of how he’d respond under true duress.
Mayweather is not the G.O.A.T. However, he is an all-time great and the best fighter of his generation. #17 is the right place for him in my view.
16) Pernell Whitaker
Pernell Whitaker was an Olympic Gold Medalist. In March 1988, he challenged Jose Luis Ramirez for the WBC Lightweight title and lost in one of the worst decisions seen in modern boxing history.
11 months later, Whitaker captured the IBF Lightweight title with a 12 round decision over Greg Haugen. Over the next 2 ½ + years, he defended 8 times, capturing the WBA and WBC versions of the title along the way. Among his victories during this time were a rematch victory over Ramirez in August 1989 and a decision win over the legendary Azumah Nelson in May 1990.
In July 1992, Whitaker challenged IBF Jr. Welterweight champion Rafael Pineda, winning by unanimous decision. He then moved up to Welterweight capturing the WBC version of that title in March 1993 with a unanimous decision victory over James “Buddy” Mcgirt. In his first defense that September he squared off against Mexican legend Julio Cesar Chavez. Whitaker dominated but became the victim of another bogus decision as the fight was scored a draw.
In March 1995, he captured the WBA Jr. Middleweight championship with a decision win over Julio Cesar Vasquez, choosing to relinquish and stay at Welterweight. In April 1997, the now 33 year old Whitaker lost by yet another controversial decision to Oscar De La Hoya. He would go on to lose a convincing decision to IBF Welterweight champion Felix Trinidad in February 1999.
Overall, Whitaker was 40-4-1 (17 Kos), 1 no contest. His record in world title fights was an impressive 19-3-1 (4 KOs). Whitaker was a special fighter and warrants a prominent spot among boxing’s top 20 greatest of all-time.
15) Mickey Walker
Over a 16 year career, lasting from 1919 to 1935, Mickey Walker faced the best fighters in the world ranging from Welterweight all the way up to Heavyweight. His record was an impressive 131-25-6 (60 KOs).
Walker captured the Welterweight title in November 1922 with a 15 round decision win over fellow hall of famer Jack Britton. He defended successfully 6 times before losing the title by decision to Pete Latzo in May 1926. The Toy Bull Dog had already been testing the waters at higher weights, losing in a Middleweight title shot to the legendary Harry Greb in July 1925, a bruising battle which reported spilled over into a saloon fight after the contest. In December 1926, Walker captured the Middleweight title with a 10 round decision victory over Tiger Flowers. He defended four times before abdicating to move up to higher weights.
Over the course of his career: Walker’s significant opponents included: Soldier Bartfield (won three), Leo Lomski (won twice), Mike McTigue (won twice), Jock Malone (won four, lost), Lew Tender (won), Tiger Flowers (won), Paul Berlenbach (won), Bearcat Wright (won), King Levinsky (won), Paulino Uzcudun (won), Jack Britton (won and drew), Dave Shade (won twice and lost), Pete Latzo (won, lost), Maxie Rosenbloom (won and lost), Jack Sharkey (drew), Bob Godwin (drew twice), Lou Bogash (lost), Harry Greb (lost), Joe Dundee (lost), Tommy Loughran (lost), Max Schmeling (lost), Lou Brouillard (lost), Young Corbett III (lost), Paul Pirrone (lost twice)
The Toy Bulldog’s tenacity, longevity, and performance against the best fighters of multiple weight classes earns him a spot among boxing’s 15 greatest of all-time.
14) Joe Gans (249)
The “Old Master” was one of the greatest Lightweights that ever lived. Another of the great pioneers of boxing, he possessed all the tools of an all-time great. Gans was an outstanding boxer with terrific speed and defensive skills. He was also an accurate, clever counterpuncher and possessed devastating power.
Over a 16 year career, lasting from 1893 to 1909, the “Old Master” amassed an amazing record of 158-12-21 (100 KOs). He won the Lightweight title in May 1902 with a first round knockout over Frank Erne. He defended 12 times over the next 6 years before losing the title to Battling Nelson by a 17th round KO, in July 1908. He lost in a rematch to Nelson by a 21st round knockout in September 1908.
Gans significant opponents included: Bobby Dobbs (won twice), Rufe Turner (won twice), Kid McPartland (won two and drew), Dave Holly (won twice and drew), George “Elbows” McFadden (won four, lost and drew twice), Mike “Twin” Sullivan (won twice and drew), Young Griffo (won and drew twice), Jimmy Britt (won), Jimmy Britt (won), Jack Blackburn (won twice and lost), Frank Erne (won and lost), Joe Walcott (drew),Terry McGovern (lost), Sam Langford (lost), and Battling Nelson (won and lost twice),
The “Old Master” was a boxing genius possessing all of the tools that define an all-time great. His resume is among the most hallowed in the history of the sport. Gans is more than worthy of a place among the top 15 ever of all-time and many historians would probably say that’s understating it.
13) Archie Moore
The Old Mongoose was the epitomy of a boxing legend. He fought for 28 years in a career lasting from 1935 to 1963. Moore’s best days, arguably, occurred well after his 35th birthday. After toiling for 17 years, he captured the Light Heavyweight title in December 1952 with a unanimous decision victory over Joey Maxim at the age of 36? The Old Mongoose reigned for nearly 10 years, the longest title reign in Light Heavyweight history, and was well into his into his late 40’s when he finally relinquished the title in May 1962. Archie was a boxing master and one of the most devastating punchers in boxing history, ranking #4 on Ring magazines all-time list. Over the course of his career, Moore had an incredible record of 185-23-10 (131 KOs).
Moore’s significant opponents included: Joey Maxim (won three), Bert Lytell (won twice), Nino Valdez (won twice), Yvon Durelle (won twice), Lloyd Marshall (won twice), Harold Johnson (won four and lost), Jimmy Bivins (won four and lost), Oakland Billy Smith (won three and draw), Jack Chase (won four, lost and drew), Eddie Cotton (won), Bobo Olson (won), Cocoa Kid (won), Bob Satterfield (won), Holman Williams (won, lost), Willie Pastrano (drew). Eddie Booker (drew twice and lost), Teddy Yarosz (lost), Charley Burley (lost), Rocky Marciano (lost), Floyd Patterson (lost) Muhammad Ali (lost) and Ezzard Charles (lost three),
Moore defended the Light Heavyweight Title 9 times over his 10 year reign. His record against fellow IBHOF hall of famers was an incredible 16-11-1 (8 KOs). Archie Moore was a true boxing icon and one of the 15 greatest pugilists who’ve ever lived.
12) Ezzard Charles
One cannot mention Archie Moore without following up with Ezzard Charles, who defeated Archie three times. Charles was a world champion at Heavyweight but his best work was done at the Light Heavyweight level, in spite of never having fought for that title. Ezzard turned professional in 1940 and over a 19 year career compiled a professional record of 95-25-1 (52 KOs).
Charles actually started his career as a Middleweight before gradually moving up to Light Heavyweight. His most significant opponents at Middleweight and Light Heavyweight included: Joey Maxim (won five), Archie Moore (won three), Charley Burley (won twice), Oakland Billy Smith (won twice), Jimmy Bivins (won three and lost), Lloyd Marshall (won twice and lost), Teddy Yarosz (won), Anton Christoforidis (won), Ken Overlin (lost and drew) and Kid Tunero (lost).
After accomplishing all this, he moved up to Heavyweight to face Jersey Joe Walcott in June 1949 for the title that had been vacated by Joe Louis. Charles defeated Walcott by 15 round unanimous decision in that matchup and went on to defend the title 8 times over the next two years, including a decision victory over the come backing Joe Louis and a rematch unanimous decision win over Walcott.
He lost the title to Walcott in July 1951 in their third matchup by a 7th round knockout. Charles lost again to Walcott in June 1952 by unanimous decision. He went on to lose twice to Rocky Marciano in Heavyweight title shots (L15, KO by 8), but gave him two of the toughest fights of his career. In the end, Charles had one of the greatest careers in boxing history and belongs among boxing’s top 15 of all-time.
11) Willie Pep
Willie Pep is arguably the greatest Featherweight who ever lived. He started his career with an incredible record of 134-1-1 over the first 8 years of his career. Pep finished his 26 year career, lasting from 1940 to 1966, with a record of 229-11-1 (65 KOs). Pep won the NYSAC version of the Featherweight championship by 15 round decision over Chalky Wright in November 1942. He held the title for six years before defending against fellow Featherweight icon Sandy Saddler, in the first matchup of what would become an ongoing rivalry, in October 1948. Saddler knocked Pep out in the 4th round.
Less than four months later, in February 1949, Pep turned the table on a Saddler in a rematch, out boxing him en route to a unanimous decision win. He defended three times before facing Saddler in a rubber match in September 1950. Pep was actually leading on points after 7 rounds but was forced to retire due to a separated shoulder. He faced Saddler again for the fourth time in September 1951 and again was stopped, this time in the 9th round. Pep would fight on for another 15 years but never again would challenge for a world title.
Pep’s significant opponents included: Chalky Wright (won four), Sal Bartolo (won three), Joey Archibald (won twice), Jackie Wilson (won twice), Manuel Ortiz (won), Willie Joyce (won), Phil Terranova (won), Jackie Graves (won), Paddy Demarco (won), Eddie Compo (won), Harold Dade (won), Ray Famechon (won), Sandy Saddler (won, lost three), Sammy Angott (lost), Tommy Collins (lost), Lulu Perez (lost), Hogan “Kid” Bassey (lost).
In the end, Pep’s incredible career definitely warrants top 15 status, falling just a hair shy of the top 10.
This concludes Part 10 of my top 100 pound for pound boxers of all-time series. To this point, I’ve tried to keep the vignettes to around 200 words, although I’ve expanded a bit over the last two installments. Now that we’re down to the 10 greatest ever, 200 words for each simply isn’t enough to do justice to the accomplishments of the 10 iconic fighters that follow.
Thus, I’m going to divide the final 10 into two separate installments, #10-6 and #5-1, both of which will be posted within the next week. We’re down to the finish line now!
As always, I look forward to your comments and feedback. Links to the previous installments of this series are attached for your convenience
http://mythicalboxing.weebly.com/part-9-top-100-pound-for-pound-boxers-of-all-time-30-21
http://mythicalboxing.weebly.com/part-8-top-100-boxers-of-all-time-40-31
http://mythicalboxing.weebly.com/part-7-top-100-pound-for-pound-boxers-of-all-time-50-41
http://mythicalboxing.weebly.com/part-6-top-100-pound-for-pound-boxers-of-all-time
http://mythicalboxing.weebly.com/part-5-top-100-pound-for-pound-boxers-of-all-time-70-61
http://mythicalboxing.weebly.com/part-4-top-100-pound-for-pound-boxers-of-all-time-80-71
http://mythicalboxing.weebly.com/part-3-top-100-boxers-of-all-time-90-81
http://mythicalboxing.weebly.com/part-2-top-100-pound-for-pound-boxers-of-all-time-100-91
http://mythicalboxing.weebly.com/part-1-top-10-controversial-omissions
http://mythicalboxing.weebly.com/introduction
20) Carlos Monzon
Carlos Monzon is generally regarded as one of the five greatest Middleweights who ever lived. He turned professional in February 1963 and lost 3 bouts over his first twenty months. However, he would never lose again, doing undefeated over the final 13 years of his career, going 71-0-9 over this span. Overall, Monzon was 87-3-9 (58 KOs).
At 5’11 ½’’ Monzon was long and lean with a 76 inch reach, possessing excellent power in both fists. He possessed an iron chin and great stamina. He was never stopped in 99 bouts. Monzon certainly wasn’t the fastest guy in the ring but was a clever technician who possessed an excellent left jab. Monzon won the Middleweight championship in November 1970 with a 12th round stoppage over fellow hall of famer Nino Benvenuti. He would go on to defend the title 14 times (9 KOs) over the next 7 years. This represents a division record for an undisputed Middleweight champion. Monzon was one of the three best fighters of the 1970’s along with Muhammad Ali and Roberto Duran.
Monzon’s significant opponents included: Nino Benvenuti (won twice), Emile Griffith (won twice), Jean Claude Bouttier (won twice), Rodrigo Valdez (won twice), Tom Bogs (won), Jose Napoles (won), Tony Mundine (won), and Bennie Briscoe (won, drew), Monzon never lost the title in the ring, choosing to retire after his second victory over Valdez in July 1977 at the age of 35. He is among the rare few that resisted the temptation to return to the ring.
Monzon’s outstanding record, dominance at Middleweight, and quality of opposition earn him a spot among boxing’s top 20 of all-time.
19) Marvelous Marvin Hagler
Marvelous Marvin Hagler was a true throwback. Over a 14 year career, lasting from 1973 to 1987, he compiled a record of 62-3-2 (52 KOs). It could have been 66-1, as both draws and two of his three losses were hotly disputed.
Hagler defeated Sugar Ray Seales, Cyclone Hart, Willie “The Worm” Monroe, Bennie Briscoe, Kevin Finnegan, Doug Demmings, and Mike Colbert before receiving his first title shot against champion Vito Antuofermo in November 1979. Hagler controlled the fight, however, the judges scored it a controversial draw. Ten months later, Hagler won the Middleweight championship, destroying Alan Minter in three rounds. Marvin ruled with an iron fist over the next 6 ½ years, dispatching 12 challengers, 11 by stoppage, including a rematch victory over Antuofermo in June 1981.
Hagler defeated the legendary Roberto Duran by unanimous decision in November 1983. In April 1985, He faced the red hot Thomas Hearns, walking through Tommy’s crushing rights and stopping him in 3 rounds. After stopping undefeated power puncher John Mugabi in the 11th, Hagler received a long awaited match with Sugar Ray Leonard. Marvin was past his prime by the time they faced, on April 6, 1987, but was still a heavy favorite. However, Leonard boxed brilliantly and won by a close, controversial split decision. Hagler retired in disgust after the fight.
Differentiating between Hagler and Monzon was difficult. Monzon had more victories, a slightly longer title reign, and faced better opposition as champion. Conversely, Hagler had the more dominant victories. In the end, the Hearns fight made the difference. I believe Tommy was better than anyone Monzon faced, thus giving Hagler the slightest of edges.
18) Jack Johnson
Jack Johnson, as the first African American Heavyweight champion, is probably one of the two most historically significant figures in boxing history, along with Joe Louis. The social implications of his career and the injustices he endured are beyond the scope of this article but one cannot mention him without at least acknowledging his historical importance.
Johnson fought for more than 33 years, from 1897 to 1931. After chasing the title for years, he captured it in December 1908 with a 14th round victory over Tommy Burns and dominated the division over the next several years. Overall, Johnson held the title for seven years, defending 6 times. In July 1910, former Heavyweight champion James J. Jeffries was coaxed out of retirement to challenge Johnson. Poor Jim was shellacked and stopped in 15 rounds. Nearly five years later Johnson lost the title by a 26th round knockout to Jess Willard in April 1915. Allegations still persist to this date that Johnson threw the fight.
Johnson’s significant opponents over the course of his career included: Black Bill (won four), Sam McVea (won three), Fireman Jim Flynn (won twice), Denver Ed Martin (won two), Joe Jeannette (won five, lost, and drew), George Gardner (won), Marvin Hart (lost), Young Peter Jackson (won), Sam Langford (won), Bob Fitzsimmons (won), Tommy Burns (won), James J. Jeffries (won), Stanley Ketchel (won), Philadelphia Jack O’Brien (drew), Joe Choynski (lost), Mexican Pete Everett (drew), Jess Willard (lost), Bearcat Wright (lost).
Overall, Johnson’s record in recorded bouts was 70-11-11 (35 KOs). Historical significance aside, Johnson was one of the greatest Heavyweights ever. His accomplishments in the ring warrant top 20 status.
17) Floyd Mayweather Jr.
No matter where I put Floyd, I know I’m completely screwed. His fans are going to scream and howl that he’s not listed as the G.O.A.T. At the same time, traditionalists also going to strenuously object to putting him anywhere near the top. Anyway, this is my opinion and I’m sticking to it. To those who think Floyd’s the G.O.A.T, you need a refresher on boxing history. To the Floyd critics and haters, I’m not thrilled with his act either but you do have to acknowledge the man’s accomplishments are special.
Mayweather is the best defensive fighter I’ve ever seen. His reign of dominance over the past 15+ years is historic. Yes, he’s done some cherry-picking (or I prefer to call it opportunistic match making). That said, he’s faced and defeated numerous quality opponents over the years including: Genaro Hernandez, Angel Manfredy, Diego Corrales, Jose Luis Castillo (twice, although the first fight should have been a loss), Arturo Gatti, Zab Judah, Oscar De La Hoya, Ricky Hatton, Juan Manuel Marquez, Shane Mosley, Miguel Cotto, Canelo Alvarez, and finally Manny Pacquiao.
I can’t justify ranking Mayweather higher because: 1) He lacks a singular, defining win over an all-time great who was in his truly in his prime and at his best weight. The closest thing to this would be Cotto, who is not top 100 worthy. 2) He’s faced limited adversity in the ring so we’re still left with the unanswered question of how he’d respond under true duress.
Mayweather is not the G.O.A.T. However, he is an all-time great and the best fighter of his generation. #17 is the right place for him in my view.
16) Pernell Whitaker
Pernell Whitaker was an Olympic Gold Medalist. In March 1988, he challenged Jose Luis Ramirez for the WBC Lightweight title and lost in one of the worst decisions seen in modern boxing history.
11 months later, Whitaker captured the IBF Lightweight title with a 12 round decision over Greg Haugen. Over the next 2 ½ + years, he defended 8 times, capturing the WBA and WBC versions of the title along the way. Among his victories during this time were a rematch victory over Ramirez in August 1989 and a decision win over the legendary Azumah Nelson in May 1990.
In July 1992, Whitaker challenged IBF Jr. Welterweight champion Rafael Pineda, winning by unanimous decision. He then moved up to Welterweight capturing the WBC version of that title in March 1993 with a unanimous decision victory over James “Buddy” Mcgirt. In his first defense that September he squared off against Mexican legend Julio Cesar Chavez. Whitaker dominated but became the victim of another bogus decision as the fight was scored a draw.
In March 1995, he captured the WBA Jr. Middleweight championship with a decision win over Julio Cesar Vasquez, choosing to relinquish and stay at Welterweight. In April 1997, the now 33 year old Whitaker lost by yet another controversial decision to Oscar De La Hoya. He would go on to lose a convincing decision to IBF Welterweight champion Felix Trinidad in February 1999.
Overall, Whitaker was 40-4-1 (17 Kos), 1 no contest. His record in world title fights was an impressive 19-3-1 (4 KOs). Whitaker was a special fighter and warrants a prominent spot among boxing’s top 20 greatest of all-time.
15) Mickey Walker
Over a 16 year career, lasting from 1919 to 1935, Mickey Walker faced the best fighters in the world ranging from Welterweight all the way up to Heavyweight. His record was an impressive 131-25-6 (60 KOs).
Walker captured the Welterweight title in November 1922 with a 15 round decision win over fellow hall of famer Jack Britton. He defended successfully 6 times before losing the title by decision to Pete Latzo in May 1926. The Toy Bull Dog had already been testing the waters at higher weights, losing in a Middleweight title shot to the legendary Harry Greb in July 1925, a bruising battle which reported spilled over into a saloon fight after the contest. In December 1926, Walker captured the Middleweight title with a 10 round decision victory over Tiger Flowers. He defended four times before abdicating to move up to higher weights.
Over the course of his career: Walker’s significant opponents included: Soldier Bartfield (won three), Leo Lomski (won twice), Mike McTigue (won twice), Jock Malone (won four, lost), Lew Tender (won), Tiger Flowers (won), Paul Berlenbach (won), Bearcat Wright (won), King Levinsky (won), Paulino Uzcudun (won), Jack Britton (won and drew), Dave Shade (won twice and lost), Pete Latzo (won, lost), Maxie Rosenbloom (won and lost), Jack Sharkey (drew), Bob Godwin (drew twice), Lou Bogash (lost), Harry Greb (lost), Joe Dundee (lost), Tommy Loughran (lost), Max Schmeling (lost), Lou Brouillard (lost), Young Corbett III (lost), Paul Pirrone (lost twice)
The Toy Bulldog’s tenacity, longevity, and performance against the best fighters of multiple weight classes earns him a spot among boxing’s 15 greatest of all-time.
14) Joe Gans (249)
The “Old Master” was one of the greatest Lightweights that ever lived. Another of the great pioneers of boxing, he possessed all the tools of an all-time great. Gans was an outstanding boxer with terrific speed and defensive skills. He was also an accurate, clever counterpuncher and possessed devastating power.
Over a 16 year career, lasting from 1893 to 1909, the “Old Master” amassed an amazing record of 158-12-21 (100 KOs). He won the Lightweight title in May 1902 with a first round knockout over Frank Erne. He defended 12 times over the next 6 years before losing the title to Battling Nelson by a 17th round KO, in July 1908. He lost in a rematch to Nelson by a 21st round knockout in September 1908.
Gans significant opponents included: Bobby Dobbs (won twice), Rufe Turner (won twice), Kid McPartland (won two and drew), Dave Holly (won twice and drew), George “Elbows” McFadden (won four, lost and drew twice), Mike “Twin” Sullivan (won twice and drew), Young Griffo (won and drew twice), Jimmy Britt (won), Jimmy Britt (won), Jack Blackburn (won twice and lost), Frank Erne (won and lost), Joe Walcott (drew),Terry McGovern (lost), Sam Langford (lost), and Battling Nelson (won and lost twice),
The “Old Master” was a boxing genius possessing all of the tools that define an all-time great. His resume is among the most hallowed in the history of the sport. Gans is more than worthy of a place among the top 15 ever of all-time and many historians would probably say that’s understating it.
13) Archie Moore
The Old Mongoose was the epitomy of a boxing legend. He fought for 28 years in a career lasting from 1935 to 1963. Moore’s best days, arguably, occurred well after his 35th birthday. After toiling for 17 years, he captured the Light Heavyweight title in December 1952 with a unanimous decision victory over Joey Maxim at the age of 36? The Old Mongoose reigned for nearly 10 years, the longest title reign in Light Heavyweight history, and was well into his into his late 40’s when he finally relinquished the title in May 1962. Archie was a boxing master and one of the most devastating punchers in boxing history, ranking #4 on Ring magazines all-time list. Over the course of his career, Moore had an incredible record of 185-23-10 (131 KOs).
Moore’s significant opponents included: Joey Maxim (won three), Bert Lytell (won twice), Nino Valdez (won twice), Yvon Durelle (won twice), Lloyd Marshall (won twice), Harold Johnson (won four and lost), Jimmy Bivins (won four and lost), Oakland Billy Smith (won three and draw), Jack Chase (won four, lost and drew), Eddie Cotton (won), Bobo Olson (won), Cocoa Kid (won), Bob Satterfield (won), Holman Williams (won, lost), Willie Pastrano (drew). Eddie Booker (drew twice and lost), Teddy Yarosz (lost), Charley Burley (lost), Rocky Marciano (lost), Floyd Patterson (lost) Muhammad Ali (lost) and Ezzard Charles (lost three),
Moore defended the Light Heavyweight Title 9 times over his 10 year reign. His record against fellow IBHOF hall of famers was an incredible 16-11-1 (8 KOs). Archie Moore was a true boxing icon and one of the 15 greatest pugilists who’ve ever lived.
12) Ezzard Charles
One cannot mention Archie Moore without following up with Ezzard Charles, who defeated Archie three times. Charles was a world champion at Heavyweight but his best work was done at the Light Heavyweight level, in spite of never having fought for that title. Ezzard turned professional in 1940 and over a 19 year career compiled a professional record of 95-25-1 (52 KOs).
Charles actually started his career as a Middleweight before gradually moving up to Light Heavyweight. His most significant opponents at Middleweight and Light Heavyweight included: Joey Maxim (won five), Archie Moore (won three), Charley Burley (won twice), Oakland Billy Smith (won twice), Jimmy Bivins (won three and lost), Lloyd Marshall (won twice and lost), Teddy Yarosz (won), Anton Christoforidis (won), Ken Overlin (lost and drew) and Kid Tunero (lost).
After accomplishing all this, he moved up to Heavyweight to face Jersey Joe Walcott in June 1949 for the title that had been vacated by Joe Louis. Charles defeated Walcott by 15 round unanimous decision in that matchup and went on to defend the title 8 times over the next two years, including a decision victory over the come backing Joe Louis and a rematch unanimous decision win over Walcott.
He lost the title to Walcott in July 1951 in their third matchup by a 7th round knockout. Charles lost again to Walcott in June 1952 by unanimous decision. He went on to lose twice to Rocky Marciano in Heavyweight title shots (L15, KO by 8), but gave him two of the toughest fights of his career. In the end, Charles had one of the greatest careers in boxing history and belongs among boxing’s top 15 of all-time.
11) Willie Pep
Willie Pep is arguably the greatest Featherweight who ever lived. He started his career with an incredible record of 134-1-1 over the first 8 years of his career. Pep finished his 26 year career, lasting from 1940 to 1966, with a record of 229-11-1 (65 KOs). Pep won the NYSAC version of the Featherweight championship by 15 round decision over Chalky Wright in November 1942. He held the title for six years before defending against fellow Featherweight icon Sandy Saddler, in the first matchup of what would become an ongoing rivalry, in October 1948. Saddler knocked Pep out in the 4th round.
Less than four months later, in February 1949, Pep turned the table on a Saddler in a rematch, out boxing him en route to a unanimous decision win. He defended three times before facing Saddler in a rubber match in September 1950. Pep was actually leading on points after 7 rounds but was forced to retire due to a separated shoulder. He faced Saddler again for the fourth time in September 1951 and again was stopped, this time in the 9th round. Pep would fight on for another 15 years but never again would challenge for a world title.
Pep’s significant opponents included: Chalky Wright (won four), Sal Bartolo (won three), Joey Archibald (won twice), Jackie Wilson (won twice), Manuel Ortiz (won), Willie Joyce (won), Phil Terranova (won), Jackie Graves (won), Paddy Demarco (won), Eddie Compo (won), Harold Dade (won), Ray Famechon (won), Sandy Saddler (won, lost three), Sammy Angott (lost), Tommy Collins (lost), Lulu Perez (lost), Hogan “Kid” Bassey (lost).
In the end, Pep’s incredible career definitely warrants top 15 status, falling just a hair shy of the top 10.
This concludes Part 10 of my top 100 pound for pound boxers of all-time series. To this point, I’ve tried to keep the vignettes to around 200 words, although I’ve expanded a bit over the last two installments. Now that we’re down to the 10 greatest ever, 200 words for each simply isn’t enough to do justice to the accomplishments of the 10 iconic fighters that follow.
Thus, I’m going to divide the final 10 into two separate installments, #10-6 and #5-1, both of which will be posted within the next week. We’re down to the finish line now!
As always, I look forward to your comments and feedback. Links to the previous installments of this series are attached for your convenience
http://mythicalboxing.weebly.com/part-9-top-100-pound-for-pound-boxers-of-all-time-30-21
http://mythicalboxing.weebly.com/part-8-top-100-boxers-of-all-time-40-31
http://mythicalboxing.weebly.com/part-7-top-100-pound-for-pound-boxers-of-all-time-50-41
http://mythicalboxing.weebly.com/part-6-top-100-pound-for-pound-boxers-of-all-time
http://mythicalboxing.weebly.com/part-5-top-100-pound-for-pound-boxers-of-all-time-70-61
http://mythicalboxing.weebly.com/part-4-top-100-pound-for-pound-boxers-of-all-time-80-71
http://mythicalboxing.weebly.com/part-3-top-100-boxers-of-all-time-90-81
http://mythicalboxing.weebly.com/part-2-top-100-pound-for-pound-boxers-of-all-time-100-91
http://mythicalboxing.weebly.com/part-1-top-10-controversial-omissions
http://mythicalboxing.weebly.com/introduction